Justice Support Services

Respect the intrinisic worth of each human being

What are Justice Support Services?

Our Justice Support Services program assists individuals who are incarcerated, on probation, or navigating the court system in developing personalized recovery plans. We help them connect with and utilize community resources, access behavioral health supports, and more. We offer programming on-site at Ithaca city and Tompkins county courts, the Tompkins County Probation Department, and by appointment at our offices.

MHATC Staff in this program have specialized training in the criminal justice system and recovery services (see below for more information). They not only provide non-clinical crisis support, especially after periods of hospitalization or incarceration but mentorship, hope and inspiration for those on their recovery journeys. They help individuals see the possibilities for their own lives and support them in making meaningful changes.

For more information contact Larry Albro, Director of Justice Services at lalbro@mhaedu.org or call (607) 273-9250. 

hands together in a circle

How Can Our Justice Support Services Help?

We provide non-judgmental crisis support, emotional support, and relapse prevention including help with:

  • Identifying and building upon your personal strengths to maintain recovery goals and effectively manage mental health challenges.

  • Fostering peer relationships and developing stronger natural support networks.

  • Enhancing your social skills, enabling you to live, work, and participate more fully in your community.

  • Navigating community services and resources, ensuring you access the support you need.

  • Educating stakeholders in the criminal justice system about mental health recovery.

  • Advocating on your behalf when you’re unable to do so yourself.

What is a Certified Peer Specialist?

All Certified Peer Specialists (CPS) in New York State need to meet specific requirements: be at least 18 years of age, have earned a high school diploma, complete a core curriculum of specialized peer training courses at the Academy of Peer Services and publicly (self-determined) acknowledge that they have or are currently using mental health services. Certification also requires completing 2,000 hours of supervised peer specialist work. Certification is administered and authorized through the New York Peer Specialist Certification Board (NYPSCB).  New York Certified Peer Specialist certification is funded through the New York State Office of Mental Health.

What is a Certified Recovery Peer Advocate?

Certified Recovery Peer Advocates (CRPAs) draw from personal experience with substance use, and professional training to provide non-clinical support services as identified in the patient's treatment or recovery plan. CRPAs may also help those in treatment/recovery in the development of recovery plans, effective coping habits, and life skills for navigating recovery.  CRPA’s are certified by the New York Certification Board and must successfully complete the following to be certified in NYS:

  • Hold a high school diploma or have their GED;

  • Complete 50 hours of required training (advocacy, mentoring and education, recovery wellness support, ethical responsibility and Medication Supported Recovery (MSR);

  • Complete at least 500 hours of related volunteer or work experience;

  • Complete at least 25 hours of supervision by qualified supervisory staff;

  • Pass the International Certification and Reciprocity Consortium (IC-RC) exam.